Meet cladding’s new best friend

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Revolutionize your cladding projects with ProTect Siding Starter, the lightweight, durable solution that ensures superior moisture protection and easy installation. 

In the world of construction, innovation is key. Introducing the ProTect Siding Starter, a game-changing product from Quarrix, designed to streamline the installation process and provide superior protection for your cladding projects. Made from lightweight, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, these strips offer an easy-to-install, breathable moisture barrier behind the first course of siding, ensuring that walls stay dry and protected from the elements. 

ProTect Siding Starter strips are engineered for optimal performance. Their innovative design features small air channels that promote airflow, preventing moisture buildup and safeguarding your walls against potential damage. This level of moisture management is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the cladding and the overall health of the building structure. 

One of the standout features of ProTect Siding Starter is its durability. Unlike traditional wood or other cladding materials, these strips are resistant to rot, warping and splitting. This longevity not only enhances the lifespan of your project but also reduces maintenance costs over time. Additionally, the built-in insect barrier offers added protection against pests, ensuring that the structure remains secure and undamaged. 

ProTect Siding Starter is particularly beneficial for those working with fiber cement, engineered wood and composite siding assemblies. The product eliminates the need for labor-intensive ripping of expensive clapboard strips, allowing for a quick and straightforward application straight from the box. Lightweight and gun-nailable, these strips can be easily cut with a utility knife, resulting in minimal waste and maximum efficiency. 

The strips are consistently sized for precise installation, each measuring 5/16" x 1.5" x 8'. They meet the highest standards for impact, compression and heat resistance in the building products industry. This consistency and quality make them ideal for use above window and door openings, further enhancing their versatility and practicality. 

Installation is a breeze. After installing the water-resistant barrier (WRB), ensure that surfaces are dry and free of ridges, warps or voids. Next, install the siding starter over the WRB, even with the bottom of the sheathing. Secure it with non-corrosive fasteners and then install the first course of siding according to manufacturer specifications and local building codes. The bottom end of the siding should slightly overlap the bottom of the Siding Starter. Continue installing the siding up to the top of the wall. 

ProTect Siding Starters are designed to work seamlessly with ProTect Furring Strips as part of a complete rainscreen system behind metal, wood and fiber cement cladding. This system enhances ventilation and moisture management, replacing the time, cost and effort associated with traditional methods. 

ProTect Siding Starter offers a revolutionary solution for your cladding projects. With its ease of installation, superior moisture protection and exceptional durability, it is an indispensable addition to any builder's toolkit. Transform your projects and elevate your craftsmanship with ProTect Siding Starter — because superior protection starts from the ground up.